FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

We are located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, at 470 N Story Hill Place.

We grow & produce are goods using a system called "aquaponics". Aquaponic systems are one of the most sustainable ways of producing fresh fish and produce for locals, without using any fertilizers and other additives - which could be harmful to the environment and residents.

If one is planning to start a small aquaponics farm, then these simple steps can be useful for a quick set up: • Grow beds are installed with grow media The fish tank is set up and water is filled into it • Add plants to the grow bed • Test the pH of the nutrient medium and the water in a fish tank • The establishment of healthy microbes and bacteria is done on the system • Keep a regular check on the ammonia nitrate levels in the medium • Make a proper choice of the fish and add them to the tank

Aquaponics systems are best suited for warm freshwater fish and leafy crops. However, the fish that can be farmed in these systems are tilapia, carps, barramundi, catfish, koi, etc. Ornamental fish like angelfish, guppies, tetras, swordfish, and mollies can also be raised here. Plants that are grown in aquaponic systems could possibly be lettuce, kale, Swiss chard, watercress, chives, tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, peas, squash, beans, cauliflower, cabbage, radish, onions, carrots, microgreens, etc

Sustainability refers to the fact that the technique is potentially useful for the planet, healthy for people, and is economically feasible to undertake. The process of Aquaponics is considered sustainable because of the following reasons: • Saves water, which is a precious resource The need for good soil condition is ruled out Farmlands that are barren can also be used to set up an aquaponics farm The supply of the nutrient mixture of the crops is natural and consistent • Produces less waste when compared to other systems • Reduces the need for long-distance transportation • Creates financial sustainability due to the produce from the crops and fish.

There are 16 elements required by the plants in an aquaponic system. The three non-mineral-based nutrients required are hydrogen, oxygen, and carbon, which are available from air and water. The remaining nutrients required for the growth of plants are nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium, calcium magnesium, sulfur, boron, copper, iron, chloride, manganese, molybdenum, zinc, etc.

To ensure a healthy system, there are some periodic tasks to be undertaken each day such as; Feeding the fish • Plant seeding, rotation, and harvesting • Observing and monitoring the farm • Fish harvesting • Testing the water quality • Cleaning the filters and other system equipment • Operating the system properly

It is standard that aquaponic systems do not use chemicals for pest and disease control due to the sensitivity of the system. The basic idea of pest or disease control in Aquaponics refers to the prevention of these things. Some general management techniques that can keep the aquaponic farm healthy are bio- security measures, periodic monitoring and scouting, installing insect screens inside the farm, keeping the farm clean and tidy by removing all the dead and dry matter, etc. If by any chance pests of the disease occur within the system, then identify the proper cause and the type of pest or disease and apply suitable biological control. Allowing beneficial insects can be a possible biological control.